Overview
The Mahale Mountains National Park lies on the shore of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania, with forested slopes rising to Mount Nkungwe, at about 2,460 m. It is one of the best places in Africa to see wild chimpanzees, with several hundred living in the park, and a long research tradition.
The park is remote, reached by boat or small plane, and has only a few camps on the beach. Chimpanzee trekking involves walking in the forest with a ranger, with sightings varying through the year. Visitors can also swim, snorkel and kayak on the lake, which is one of the deepest in the world.
Highlights
- Chimpanzee trekking with a ranger
- Swimming and kayaking on Lake Tanganyika
- Forest walks and waterfalls
- The lakeshore camps and sunsets
Best time to visit
May to October is the dry season, with the best chance of finding chimpanzees, which come lower in the forest in the dry season. November to April is wetter, with fewer visitors, though trekking is still possible. Some camps close in the wet season.
- JanJanuary: Not ideal
- FebFebruary: Not ideal
- MarMarch: Not ideal
- AprApril: Not ideal
- MayMay: Best
- JunJune: Best
- JulJuly: Best
- AugAugust: Best
- SepSeptember: Best
- OctOctober: Best
- NovNovember: Good
- DecDecember: Not ideal
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Arusha, then take a flight to Mahale via Kigoma or a charter, or travel by boat from Kigoma, about 6 hours or more. Most visitors travel with an operator and stay at a lodge or camp. Check fees and trekking permits in advance.
What to expect
Moderate. Chimpanzee treks can be steep, hot and humid, with variable terrain. Rangers set the pace. Take sturdy shoes and water. Keep a distance of at least 10 m from the animals.
Practical tips
- Book with a licensed operator and check permit and fee rules.
- Do not trek if you are unwell, to avoid passing disease to the chimpanzees.
- Take insect repellent, light layers and sturdy shoes.
- Follow the ranger's guidance about distance and behaviour.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Mahale?
By small plane or boat from Kigoma, usually through a lodge or operator.
Are chimpanzee sightings guaranteed?
No, but the chances are high in the dry season.
When is the best time to go?
May to October.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: Caelio (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Wikimedia Commons.
